News for 'Saudi'

Naveen Puligilla and Musa Sherif Achieve WRC3 Podium at Safari Rally Kenya

Naveen Puligilla and Musa Sherif Achieve WRC3 Podium at Safari Rally Kenya

Rediff.com18 Mar 2026

Hyderabad-based rally driver Naveen Puligilla and co-driver Musa Sherif secured a podium finish in the WRC3 category at the Safari Rally Kenya 2026, marking a significant achievement for Indian motorsport.

India Navigates West Asia Crisis: Ensuring Energy Security and Citizen Safety

India Navigates West Asia Crisis: Ensuring Energy Security and Citizen Safety

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

India addresses the escalating conflict in West Asia, outlining its diplomatic efforts to ensure energy security, the safety of its citizens, and advocating for a peaceful resolution through dialogue.

A War With No Exit Strategy, No Victory To Declare

A War With No Exit Strategy, No Victory To Declare

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

Both sides have now revealed a preference for escalation over strategic defeat, and each new provocation narrows the space for the next pause. The Touska seizure, Iran's refusal to negotiate under blockade, Israel's strikes on Iranian oil infrastructure -- all of these add up to an increasingly untenable situation. This makes the wild card -- Trump and his motormouth -- more consequential than ever, notes Prem Panicker in his must read blog on the Iran War.

Iran launches fresh strikes on US bases

Iran launches fresh strikes on US bases

Rediff.com7 Mar 2026

The IRGC said the barrage targeted several US military facilities in the region, including bases at Sheikh Isa in Bahrain, Juffair in Bahrain, Ali al-Salem in Kuwait and Al Azraq in Jordan.

Israel agrees to hold off Iran gas field strikes at Trump's 'request'

Israel agrees to hold off Iran gas field strikes at Trump's 'request'

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

The ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran intensified sharply with attacks on critical energy infrastructure across the Gulf, even as US President Donald Trump said he had cautioned Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu against targeting Iran's key South Pars Gas Field.

Max Verstappen Hints at Shock F1 Retirement Amid Growing Frustration

Max Verstappen Hints at Shock F1 Retirement Amid Growing Frustration

Rediff.com30 Mar 2026

Max Verstappen says he is considering F1 retirement after a frustrating start to the season, saying all options are open despite his Red Bull contract till 2028.

Cristiano Ronaldo secures 25% of Spanish side Almeria

Cristiano Ronaldo secures 25% of Spanish side Almeria

Rediff.com26 Feb 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo has expanded his footprint in football, securing a 25 percent stake in Spanish second-tier side UD Almeria, representatives confirmed on Thursday.

Gulf War: Energy Shock Pushes India Towards Atmanirbharta

Gulf War: Energy Shock Pushes India Towards Atmanirbharta

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

We cannot simply have a 60-65 per cent import dependency in LPG, the bulk of which comes from just one volatile region -- West Asia, points out R Jagannathan.

How Many Indians Live In The Middle East?

How Many Indians Live In The Middle East?

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

Based on figures currently listed on the ministry of external affairs web site, a large number of Indians reside across West Asia.

SEE: First crude tanker reaches India amid Hormuz crisis

SEE: First crude tanker reaches India amid Hormuz crisis

Rediff.com12 Mar 2026

The tanker reportedly switched off its Automatic Identification System (AIS) transponder while navigating the high-risk stretch of the strait and reappeared on tracking systems on March 9.

Trump warns Iran of 'extremely hard' strikes as US nears endgame

Trump warns Iran of 'extremely hard' strikes as US nears endgame

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

In his first major national address since hostilities began, Trump said the ongoing military campaign, dubbed 'Operation Epic Fury', has delivered 'swift, decisive, overwhelming victories'.

Pakistan's deputy PM Ishaq Dar suffers hairline fracture after fall

Pakistan's deputy PM Ishaq Dar suffers hairline fracture after fall

Rediff.com30 Mar 2026

Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar sustained a hairline fracture in his shoulder after a fall during a reception for his Egyptian counterpart. Despite the injury, he continued with scheduled meetings throughout the day.

The Clock In Islamabad Is Ticking. And The World Is Watching Anxiously...

The Clock In Islamabad Is Ticking. And The World Is Watching Anxiously...

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

The delegations from the US and Iran head to Islamabad on Friday, carrying a ceasefire that is already fraying, a Strait that is technically open and practically closed, and a negotiating agenda that would challenge even parties actually negotiating in good faith, which these groups are not. Prem Panicker continues his must read blog on the Iran War.

Iran bans teams from hostile nations, FIFA World Cup at risk

Iran bans teams from hostile nations, FIFA World Cup at risk

Rediff.com27 Mar 2026

Iran has banned national and club sports teams from travelling to countries it considers hostile, citing concerns over the safety of its athletes.

Trump willing to end war without reopening Hormuz: WSJ

Trump willing to end war without reopening Hormuz: WSJ

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

US President Donald Trump is considering ending the military operation against Iran even if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed, according to the Wall Street Journal.

Pakistan, Afghanistan, China meet to discuss escalating tensions

Pakistan, Afghanistan, China meet to discuss escalating tensions

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

Officials from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and China are meeting in Urumqi to discuss regional security concerns and potential confidence-building measures.

'This War Is Only About Iran's Fight For Survival'

'This War Is Only About Iran's Fight For Survival'

Rediff.com4 Mar 2026

'Strikes into the Gulf countries are proof that the security guarantees offered by the US are ineffective and that the Gulf countries cannot rely on American security assurances for their safety.'

Iran launches 5 multi-warhead missiles, hits Tel Aviv

Iran launches 5 multi-warhead missiles, hits Tel Aviv

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

After the Israeli attack on Iran's South Pars Gas Field on Wednesday night, in retaliation, Iran struck Qatar's Ras Laffan Industrial City, resulting in extensive damage, as per the country's Ministry of Defence.

Pakistan to host crucial US-Iran talks amid anxiety

Pakistan to host crucial US-Iran talks amid anxiety

Rediff.com10 Apr 2026

Pakistan is set to host face-to-face talks between the United States and Iran, aiming to solidify a fragile ceasefire and prevent further conflict in West Asia. The discussions will focus on a long-term peace arrangement, including sanctions relief, regional security, and Iran's nuclear program.

'Middle East travel freeze won't impact Australian F1 GP'

'Middle East travel freeze won't impact Australian F1 GP'

Rediff.com2 Mar 2026

Australian Grand Prix chief executive Travis Auld anticipates no impact on this weekend's Formula One season-opener at Melbourne's Albert Park from the travel issues caused by the conflict in the Middle East.

Iran Has Not Allowed Any Indian Ship To Pass Through Strait Of Hormuz

Iran Has Not Allowed Any Indian Ship To Pass Through Strait Of Hormuz

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

24 Indian-flagged vessels with 677 Indian seafarers were currently located west of the Strait of Hormuz, and four vessels with 101 Indian seafarers were stationed east of the strategic waterway.

Indian Duo Puligilla and Sherif Target WRC3 Podium at Safari Rally Kenya

Indian Duo Puligilla and Sherif Target WRC3 Podium at Safari Rally Kenya

Rediff.com11 Mar 2026

Indian rally driver Naveen Puligilla and co-driver Musa Sherif are set to compete in the WRC Safari Rally Kenya, aiming for a podium finish in the WRC3 category.

London-bound Air India flight forced to return to Delhi

London-bound Air India flight forced to return to Delhi

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

An Air India A350 aircraft en route to London Heathrow returned to Delhi due to a technical issue after being airborne for nearly seven hours. This is the same aircraft that faced a technical issue on March 15, leading to a diversion to Shannon, Ireland.

India's Puligilla and Sherif to race in WRC Saudi Arabia

India's Puligilla and Sherif to race in WRC Saudi Arabia

Rediff.com25 Nov 2025

Naveen Puligilla and co-driver Musa Sherif will race in WRC3 class as the World Rally Championship (WRC) makes its historic debut in Saudi Arabia.

Iran War: Truce Is A Bitter Pill For Trump To Swallow

Iran War: Truce Is A Bitter Pill For Trump To Swallow

Rediff.com10 Apr 2026

The logic of war plus the gathering storms in US politics as the midterms loom large leave him with no real alternative but to negotiate, points out Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

China, Pakistan unveil five-point peace plan for West Asia

China, Pakistan unveil five-point peace plan for West Asia

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

China and Pakistan have jointly proposed a five-point peace plan to address the ongoing conflict in West Asia, focusing on de-escalation and safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.

India Responds to West Asia Crisis: Six Nationals Dead, One Missing

India Responds to West Asia Crisis: Six Nationals Dead, One Missing

Rediff.com20 Mar 2026

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has confirmed the deaths of six Indian nationals and one missing person amidst the escalating conflict in West Asia, detailing ongoing efforts for repatriation and diplomatic engagement.

Gulf War: Stocks That Tanked The Most

Gulf War: Stocks That Tanked The Most

Rediff.com14 Apr 2026

West Asia conflict triggers sharp sell-off in Indian markets, with realty, banking and auto stocks leading losses amid energy shock fears.

Pakistan, Afghanistan announce 'temporary pause' in fighting

Pakistan, Afghanistan announce 'temporary pause' in fighting

Rediff.com18 Mar 2026

Pakistan has announced a temporary pause in its ongoing operation against the Afghan Taliban in response to requests from Islamic countries and in view of the upcoming Eid festival, following accusations from Afghanistan regarding an attack on a rehabilitation hospital in Kabul.

Spain vs Argentina 'Finalissima' match in Qatar cancelled amid West Asia conflict

Spain vs Argentina 'Finalissima' match in Qatar cancelled amid West Asia conflict

Rediff.com15 Mar 2026

The 'Finalissima' match between Spain and Argentina that was scheduled to be held in Qatar has been cancelled due to the conflict in the Middle East while the South American side rejected multiple alternatives, UEFA said on Sunday.

IndiGo Manchester flight returns to Delhi due to airspace curbs

IndiGo Manchester flight returns to Delhi due to airspace curbs

Rediff.com9 Mar 2026

An IndiGo flight from Delhi to Manchester was forced to return to its origin due to last-minute airspace restrictions related to the ongoing situation in West Asia. The flight was using a leased Boeing 787 aircraft.

Gulf War: Will Trump Strike A Deal With Iran?

Gulf War: Will Trump Strike A Deal With Iran?

Rediff.com28 Mar 2026

Saudi Arabia and the UAE are actively pushing Trump to take the war to its bitter finish and 'erase' Iran's presence in the geopolitics of the region. Simply put, the two most powerful Sunni Arab oligarchies are on the same page as Israel. Such interference increases the risk of a breakdown in dialogue between the US and Iran, points out Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

Strait of Hormuz opens to ships but marine covers to stay pricey

Strait of Hormuz opens to ships but marine covers to stay pricey

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

Despite Iran allowing 'non-hostile vessels' through the Strait of Hormuz, marine insurance premiums are expected to remain elevated due to persistent high-risk classifications and ongoing geopolitical tensions, with experts cautioning that the threat of attacks and collateral damage still exists.

Iran hits American embassy in Riyadh, US pulls staff

Iran hits American embassy in Riyadh, US pulls staff

Rediff.com3 Mar 2026

The US Embassy acknowledged the attack in a post on X, urging Americans to avoid the facility 'until further notice' and announcing that all appointments had been cancelled.

Oil companies breathe easy as Saudi cuts LPG price

Oil companies breathe easy as Saudi cuts LPG price

Rediff.com10 Nov 2025

Saudi Arabia's steep cut in LPG benchmark prices has pushed India's household LPG underrecoveries to their lowest level in over two years, slashing oil companies' losses from Rs 200-250 per cylinder last year to about Rs 20-40 now.

New F1 Rules Divide Drivers Ahead Of Five-Week Break

New F1 Rules Divide Drivers Ahead Of Five-Week Break

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

Formula One's new energy rules face criticism after the Japanese GP, with drivers questioning racing quality and safety ahead of a five-week break.

Gulf War: Modi to assess impact on India's critical supplies

Gulf War: Modi to assess impact on India's critical supplies

Rediff.com1 Apr 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will review the impact of the West Asia conflict on India's food, energy, and fuel security with senior cabinet ministers. The meeting follows previous discussions and concerns raised about global energy crises and supply chain disruptions.

We must overcome West Asia fallout together: Modi in Mann Ki Baat

We must overcome West Asia fallout together: Modi in Mann Ki Baat

Rediff.com29 Mar 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called on Indian citizens to unite and overcome the challenges posed by the ongoing conflict in West Asia, cautioning against politicisation and rumour-mongering.

Nepal-born Abneet Bharti Called Up To Indian Football Camp

Nepal-born Abneet Bharti Called Up To Indian Football Camp

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

Nepal-born defender Abneet Bharti has joined the Indian senior men's team camp in Kochi ahead of the AFC Asian Cup qualifier against Hong Kong, pending FIFA clearance.

West Asia War: Rs 48.29 Lakh Crore Investor Wealth Wiped Out Since Conflict Began

West Asia War: Rs 48.29 Lakh Crore Investor Wealth Wiped Out Since Conflict Began

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

Indian investors have seen their wealth erode by a staggering Rs 48.29 lakh crore since the West Asia war began on February 28, leading to a significant downturn in the BSE Sensex and NSE Nifty, driven by geopolitical tensions and rising crude oil prices.